Now this is what I'm talking about! Pilates and aerobics combined. These two elements are what make up Crunch Fat Burning Pilates. The concept may sound a bit strange, but Ellen Barrett pulls it off and really makes this workout work.

I've never really been a big pilates fan. Heck I think I've tried almost every pilates tape out there because I want to like it. I need the core benefits and I also want that long, lean look that others claim come with a consistant pilates practice. I just have not been able to find anything that has clicked with me -until now.

This workout consists of low impact aerobics that use pilates/ballet inspired moves that are basic and easy to follow. I got almost all the moves on my first try and I'm a complete choreography clutz! I could not believe that I was able to do plie squats, releves, back leg extensions, and knee lifts so gracefully. I also managed to work up a pretty good sweat.

While doing the moves, Ellen gives you plenty of visuals, similar to visuals explained in many traditional pilates mat workouts. These visuals really helped me with the aerobic moves and forced me to concentrate even more on what I was doing, increasing the aerobic and pilates toning benefits even more.

After the 25 minute aerobic section, you move on to a brief, 10 minute pilates matwork section that will work your abs and lower back. The workout ends with a very relaxing stretch.

Besides looking for a good pilates workout, I'm also now in the market for more good low impact aerobic workouts. I also just wanted something different from the norm and this is it! It is not what I call a major sweatfeast(I'm an advanced exerciser) but after I finished, I not only felt like I worked out cardiovascularly, but I felt completely stretched, lengthened and releaxed. This one is a definate keeper.

Instructor Comments:
Crunch has found a real fitness star. Ellen has a style of instruction that is down-to-earth, clear, and very motivating. She makes you believe that you can do pilates and be graceful doing the moves.

I love the creativity of this workout and very much look foward to Ellen doing more workouts like this.

Tiffanee